Meechie Johnson’s abrupt leave from Ohio State has left fans and analysts equally baffled. Just when it seemed the 22-year-old guard’s return to Ohio would make a mark, this unexpected development had thrown everyone for a loop. The official explanation?

“Personal reasons.”

But with no further details, the rumor mill is in overdrive. Media, analysts, and fans alike are spinning theories about what this means for Johnson—and for the Buckeyes. Averaging nearly 29 minutes a game, he was a major presence on the court. While his stats—9.1 points and 2.7 assists per game—might not blow anyone away, his influence went far beyond the numbers.

 Sure, he struggled with consistency, shooting just 35.6% overall and from three, but Ohio State isn’t the same team without him. Analyst Jeff Goodman didn’t mince words when discussing Meechie’s absence on The Field of 68: After Dark. 

He highlighted a growing trend in college basketball, saying, “Does he even come back? You know he’s left the team.” He noted that many athletes are grappling with tough decisions regarding their roles and future opportunities. “There’s a lot of players around the country right now that are trying to figure out if they’re not happy with the roles or they’re heard or whatever,” the journalist added. 

He made it clear that it could not be the case with Johnson, though. But the possibility is always there. Moreover, he suggested that some players, possibly including Meechie, might consider stepping away temporarily to preserve eligibility and capitalize on NIL opportunities in the following year.

“‘Do I shut it down?’ Because the deadline is now, and if I shut it down, I have another year of eligibility, and I can go get more NIL next year. That’s a dilemma for a guy like Meechie Johnson,” he opined on the podcast. 

Goodman’s take raises an interesting point. The NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) era has undeniably changed the game. While Meechie’s current NIL valuation remains undisclosed, it’s no secret that he’s got lucrative deals with big brands like Stanley, Nerf, Skims, and The GLD Shop. Could the prospect of securing better NIL opportunities be influencing his decision?

If Johnson is indeed weighing his options, he’s walking a tightrope. On one hand, sitting out could preserve his eligibility and open the door to more NIL earnings in the future. On the other, it risks leaving his NCAA career hanging by a thread. And for someone with his potential, that’s a gamble. Whatever it is, for now, his absence didn’t stop his team from pulling a big win. 

Without Meechie Johnson, Ohio State shocks no. 4 Kentucky with a dominant win

While Meechie’s shocking absence was a blow to the Buckeyes, they still won 85-65 against No. 4 Kentucky at Madison Square Garden. After enduring a brutal 91-57 loss to Auburn earlier in the week, Ohio State needed a win. Guard Bruce Thornton was unstoppable, dropping a career-high 30 points, with 22 coming in the second half. 

His aggressive drives to the basket kept Kentucky on their heels all night. “We understood the game plan with Kentucky, understood we could get downhill after the guards,” Thornton said. “The game was opening up… and we were able to get downhill.”

Freshman John Mobley Jr. also stepped up despite struggling from beyond the arc (1-for-8). Instead, he adapted by attacking the rim, scoring a career-high 4 two-pointers.

“That was the game plan; just keep attacking,” Mobley said. “We were very connected on offense.”

Ohio State’s depth also shone through, with Aaron Bradshaw and Ques Glover making impactful returns. Bradshaw added 11 points and provided a defensive boost. Glover contributed nine points off the bench.

Meanwhile, for Kentucky, this loss marked their lowest point total of the season. Now, Buckeyes prepare for SEC play, all eyes will be on their performance—and on whether Johnson makes a comeback. Until we get an update, the mystery around his absence and return continues.